Download: Floxlab_Triaxial_Cells_Brochure.pdf
Floxlab offers a comprehensive range of triaxial cells designed for rock mechanics testing under controlled laboratory conditions. These systems allow researchers and engineers to determine key mechanical and physical properties of rock samples by applying axial and confining stresses that replicate subsurface geological environments. The Floxlab product range includes several triaxial cell families such as the HOEK Cell, Acoustic HOEK Cell, Quick Release Cell (QRC), Universal Triaxial Cell (UTC), and True Triaxial Cell (TTC). Each model is developed for specific experimental objectives, ranging from standard triaxial compression tests to advanced multi-axis stress analysis and acoustic measurements. Together, these systems provide flexible solutions for both routine laboratory testing and advanced geomechanical research.
HOEK Triaxial Cell (HC Series)
The HOEK Cell is a self-contained triaxial compression device used for standard rock mechanics testing. It allows determination of mechanical properties such as shear strength, cohesion, internal friction angle, Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio. The rock sample is placed between two loading pistons inside a sealed pressure vessel and isolated from the confining fluid by a protective sleeve. The cell supports specimen diameters from 21.5 mm to 101.6 mm with confining pressures up to 70 MPa. Its robust design and ASTM compliance make it suitable for routine triaxial compression testing.
Acoustic HOEK Cell (TAC Series)
The Acoustic HOEK Cell is a specialized version of the HOEK cell designed to measure ultrasonic wave propagation in rock samples under confining pressure. It uses acoustic platens capable of transmitting compressional (P) and shear (S1 and S2) waves through the specimen. These measurements allow the determination of acoustic velocities and dynamic elastic properties of rocks. The system operates according to ASTM D2845 and supports confining pressures up to 70 MPa. Acoustic frequencies around 1 MHz enable accurate ultrasonic testing under triaxial conditions.
Quick Release Triaxial Cell (QRC Series)
The Quick Release Cell is designed to simplify specimen installation and reduce preparation time between triaxial tests. It accommodates rock samples from 21.5 mm to 54 mm in diameter enclosed in a heat-shrinkable sleeve. Integrated sensors measure deformation using three lateral LVDTs and two axial LVDTs. The system supports axial stresses up to 800 Mpa and confining pressures up to 70 or 140 MPa. Optional heating mantles allow testing at temperatures up to 150 °C.
Universal Triaxial Cell (UTC Series)
The Universal Triaxial Cell is a versatile high-pressure testing system designed for advanced rock mechanics experiments. The specimen is enclosed in a Teflon sleeve between hardened steel platens and submerged in pressurized oil. It can operate at confining pressures up to 140 MPa and temperatures up to 150 °C. The cell includes feedthroughs allowing integration of internal sensors such as LVDTs, extensometers, ultrasonic platens and load cells. Its modular configuration allows flexible instrumentation for research applications.
True Triaxial Cell (TTC Series)
The True Triaxial Cell is designed for testing cubic rock specimens under independently controlled stresses along three orthogonal directions. It enables independent control of the principal stresses along the X, Y and Z axes, allowing realistic simulation of complex geological stress states. The system uses a servo-controlled load frame for axial stress and hydraulic pumps for lateral stresses. It can apply up to 70 MPa in the X and Y directions and up to 689 MPa in the Z direction. Optional acoustic emission monitoring and hydraulic fracturing injectors allow advanced geomechanical testing.